Chewy Peanut Butter Bars
Chewy Peanut Butter Bars are a delightful treat that combine the rich flavors of peanut butter and coconut, creating a soft and satisfying texture. Perfect for satisfying sweet cravings, these bars are ideal for family gatherings or as a quick snack for kids and adults alike.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cream shortening, peanut butter, and sugars until light and fluffy.
- Add vanilla and eggs, then beat well.
- Mix in flour, baking powder, and salt, blending thoroughly.
- Stir in coconut.
- Spread evenly in a greased 13 x 9-inch pan.
- Bake at 350° for 25 minutes.
- Cool and cut into bars.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using creamy peanut butter instead of the traditional variety. You can substitute the shortening with unsalted butter for a more decadent texture. If you're looking for a healthier option, try reducing the sugar by a quarter cup or using a sugar alternative. For added texture, mix in chocolate chips or chopped nuts, though keep in mind this will alter the chewiness.
Serving Suggestions
These chewy peanut butter bars are delicious on their own, but you can enhance them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side for a delightful dessert. They also pair well with a glass of cold milk or a warm cup of coffee, making them a great treat for breakfast or an afternoon snack. For a fun twist, serve them alongside a slice of Night Before Coffee Cake.
Storage & Reheating
Allow the bars to cool completely before storing. Place them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. For longer storage, you can freeze individual bars wrapped in plastic wrap and placed in a zip-top freezer bag for up to three months. To reheat, simply microwave a bar for about 10-15 seconds or enjoy them at room temperature.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chewy Peanut Butter Bars contains roughly 368 calories, with 6g protein, 15g carbohydrates, and 31g fat. It is a good source of protein (11% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 863mg per serving (38% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use natural peanut butter for this recipe?
Yes, you can use natural peanut butter, but it may lead to a slightly different texture. Natural peanut butter tends to be more liquid, so you might need to adjust the flour slightly to ensure the bars hold their shape. Just be sure to mix well to incorporate any oil that separates.
How can I make these bars more chocolatey?
To add a chocolatey flavor, you can mix in chocolate chips or chunks into the batter before baking. Alternatively, you could drizzle melted chocolate on top after the bars have cooled. This pairs beautifully with the nutty flavor of the peanut butter and adds an extra layer of indulgence.
Can I add other mix-ins to the bars?
Absolutely! You can customize these bars by adding dried fruits, such as cranberries or raisins, or nuts like walnuts or pecans. Just be mindful of the total volume of mix-ins so that the bars remain chewy. This versatility allows you to tailor the recipe to your taste or dietary preferences.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).